S.524 - Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 is a comprehensive bill covering a wide range of Coast Guard functions, shipping and navigation, oil pollution response, and sexual assault/harassment response. It authorizes appropriations for fiscal years 2025 and 2026, modifies existing laws, and mandates several reports and studies on various aspects of Coast Guard operations and maritime safety. The Act also includes provisions related to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Expected Effects
The Act will lead to increased funding for the Coast Guard, improvements in maritime safety and security, and enhanced protections for Coast Guard personnel. It will also result in greater oversight and accountability within the Coast Guard, particularly regarding sexual assault and harassment. The changes to NOAA will streamline vessel management and personnel qualifications.
Potential Benefits
- Increased funding for Coast Guard operations and acquisitions, enhancing their ability to perform their missions.
- Improved maritime safety through updated regulations and enhanced vessel traffic services.
- Stronger protections for Coast Guard personnel against sexual assault and harassment, promoting a safer work environment.
- Enhanced cooperation between the Coast Guard and other agencies, including NOAA and the Department of Defense.
- Greater transparency and accountability within the Coast Guard through mandated reports and studies.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased government spending, potentially contributing to the national debt.
- Potential for increased regulatory burden on the maritime industry.
- Possible delays in implementation due to the complexity of the legislation.
- Some provisions may be subject to interpretation, leading to legal challenges or unintended consequences.
- The act's focus on specific issues might divert resources from other important areas of Coast Guard operations.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to provide for the common defense and regulate commerce. The Act's provisions related to maritime safety and security fall under Congress's authority to regulate navigable waters. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).